Check out all the activites this weekend

Saturday June 11

AMSTON LAKE COMMUNITY TAG AND CRAFT SALE ON THE GREEN
The Amston Lake Association will host a community tag and craft sale Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the green across from Main Beach. Proceeds to benefit Amston Lake community events, kids’ events, and clubhouse maintenance. Amston Lake Association members are $5 per space; non-members, $10 per space. Contact Lynn at (860) 841-1116. Rain date is June 12.

ST. PETER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH TO HOST TAG SALE
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 30 Church St. (Route 85), Hebron, will hold a huge tag sale from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info: (860) 228-3244 or visit the church web site at www.StPetersHebron.com.

THRIFT SHOP AND KID’S BOUTIQUE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique is open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church on 199 Valley St., Willimantic. New items every week and spring items have arrived. The shops will be closed Saturday, July 2, for the holiday weekends. Info: (860) 423-6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

BIGG PLAY TAG SALE
BIGG Play will hold a tag sale on Jillson Square, Willimantic, from 9 a. m. to 1 p. m. 20 families will be participating.

TAG SALE – WILLIMANTIC
The McSweeney Regional Senior Center, 47 Crescent St., Willimantic, will be holding a tag sale from 9 a. m. to 3 p. m.

STATE’S ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE DAY
The Prudence Crandall Museum, 1 South Canterbury, Route 14 and 169, Canterbury, welcomes all visitors free to this year’s Open House Day, from 10 a. m. to 4 p. m. Open House Day is an annual event where cultural organizations and tourism attractions throughout the state open their doors inviting the public to discover and rediscover Connecticut’s fascinating world of art, history, film and tourism. Info: (860) 546-7800 or go to www.ctvisit.com.

COMMUNITY BIKE SAFETY FAI­R
The Hebron Lions Club will be hosting a Community Bike Safety Fair at the Hebron Lions Fairground, Route 85, Hebron from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. The fair will include bicycle safety lessons, bicycle maintenance demonstrations, seat and handlebar alignment, bicycle exhibits, skill events, and competitions. The first 150 children who attend the fair will receive a token for a free gift that will be distributed at the end of the event. Free admission, rain or shine.

ONE-ROOM GREEN DISTRICT SCHOOL OPEN
On Open House Day, art galleries, museums, theaters, historic prop­erties, tourism attractions and other key sites throughout Connecticut open their doors. From 10 a. m. to 3 p. m., the one-room Green District School in Canterbury will be open. It is located adjacent to the First Congregational Church, Library Road, Canterbury Green, on Route 169 (South Canterbury Road) just south of the intersection with Route 14. Free admission.

REVOLUTIONARY WAR RE-ENACTORS – LEBANON
Members of the 6th Connecticut Regiment and several French caval­rymen and their horses will visit the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House, 780 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon, and set up a demonstration camp on the lawn from noon to 4 p.m. They will be joined by a female apothecary who will have herbs and plants used for colonial medicines on display. The event is part of Connecticut Open House Day and admission is free. Info: (860) 642- 7987.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE SUPPER AND AUCTION
The First Baptist Church of Mansfield, 945 Storrs Road, Route 195, Mansfield will host a public strawberry shortcake supper and silent auc­tion. Seatings are at 5 and 6:30 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults, $6 children 6-12 years old. Supper and auction proceeds will benefit the “Raise the Roof Fund” to replace the wooden shingles on this historic church. Info: (860) 429- 6043 or visit www.fbcmansfieldct.com.

EASTFORD HERITAGE DAY CHICKEN BARBECUE
Eastford Elementary School will host the Eastford Heritage Day chicken barbecue at 6 p.m. $10/dinner. For tickets John Paquin (860) 974-0256 or Jeannine Spink (860) 974-1678. Proceeds to benefit the Eastford Independent Fire Company.

‘THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST’
The Windham Theatre Guild ends its 2010-11 season “The Importance of Being Earnest,” opening at the Burton Leavitt Theatre, 779 Main St., Willimantic at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 adults, $12 students and seniors (60 plus), $10 for University of Connecticut/Eastern Connecticut State University/Quinebaug Valley Community College students and $8 for children under 12. Reservations by calling (860) 423-2245 or by visit­ing www.windhamtheatreguild.org. Tickets will also be available at the door.

GOLF TOURNAMENT – COVENTRY/ HEBRON
The Coventry Early Childhood Center will hold its annual golf tour­nament at the Blackledge Country Club, Hebron. Players and sponsors needed. All proceeds will benefit the center. Info: (860) 742- 5859 or www.scrambleforourschool.com.

Sunday June 12

WAIM’S ANNUAL FLEA MARKET FUNDRAISER
Mansfield Marketplace at the Drive-In will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds will go directly to help support Windham Area Interfaith Ministry’s work in the community. Info: Neenah at WAIM at (860) 456- 7270, ext. 13.

CHAMBER CHICKEN WING CHALLENGE
The Windham Region Chamber of Commerce’s ‘Chicken Wing Challenge’ will allow participants to taste specialty chicken wings from six local restaurants and judge who has the best wings in the region.

Restaurants are Willington Pizza Too, Lucky Frog, Sneakers Sports Bar, American Eagle Saloon & Café, Fred’s Brickhouse Pizza and That Breakfast Place. (Locations subject to change). Registration 9:30 to 11 a.m. at TSI Harley Davidson. Cost is $20 for a single rider, $30 with pas­senger. Ends at the Bach Dor with a roast beef dinner. Register early and get a free raffle ticket. Info: ( 860) 423- 6389 or www.WindhamChamber.com.

ASHFORD FARMERS MARKET
The Ashford Farmers Market is held at Pompey Hollow Park, off Route 44 across from the Town Hall. The market will run every Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October. Info: e-mail Loretta birdeye123@earthlink.net.

REVOLUTION CANNONS AND CALVARY AT HALE
“Revolution! Cannons & Calvary at the Nathan Hale Homestead” will featuring Sheldon’s Horse, Second Continental Light Dragoons and other re-enactment artillery and infantry groups at 3 p.m. skirmish, artisans, crafts and more. Event starts at 10:30 a.m. Adults $5, children free. Nathan Hale Homestead is at 2299 South St., Coventry. Info: (860) 742-6917 or visitctlandmarks.org.

CHICKEN BARBECUE – BROOKLYN
Moriah Lodge No. 15, 220 Providence Road, Brooklyn, will host a chicken barbecue from noon to 2 p.m. Cost is $10/person. Help support “Children First, Brooklyn.” Open house at the lodge is from noon to 3 p.m.

19TH CENTURY NATURE WALK
A nature walk will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at the James L. Goodwin Forest Conservation Education Center off Route 6, 23 Potter Road, Hampton. Program will introduce a new outdoor program series called “The Victorian Naturalist.” This nature walk series will revisit the “country outings” that were so popular during Victorian times. Participants may wish to wear their tweeds, skirts and hobnail boots. Info: (860) 455-9534 or juan.sanchezjr@ct.gov.

Posted 6-10-2011

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Much to do this weekend – 5k Road Race, Victorian Days, sales, hikes and more

Saturday June 4

CHAPLIN 5K ROAD RACE
Chaplin Elementary School, 240 Palmer Road, Chaplin. Pre-registra­tion $12, day of $15. Race starts promptly at 9 a.m. Registration 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Trophies awarded. http://www.chaplinschool.org/documents/roadraceapplication.pdf

CASH WASH FUNDRAISER
Mansfield Self Storage, 533 Route 32, Mansfield, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 100 percent of proceeds will be given to Birth to Three. The Birth to Three system assists and strengthens the capacity of families to meet the developmental and health-related needs of infants and toddlers who have delays or disabilities.

LEBANON FARMERS MARKET OPENS FIFTH SEASON
Lebanon Farmers Market opens and runs Saturday mornings 9 a.m. until noon through Oct. 15 at Lebanon Town Hall, 579 Exeter Road. On opening day free reusable shopping bags will be given to those who spend $5 at any single vendor (while supplies last). In addition, Lebanon’s Garden Club will hold a plant swap and answer garden questions, and The Farmers Cow will be on hand with samples of their ice cream.

D. A. R. TAG SALE
Benefit tag sale to be held at the D.A.R. Chapter House, 36 Wolf Den Road, Brooklyn from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. To benefit the Sarah Williams Danielson Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution. Info: Lucy (860) 774-9457.

COMBINED ESTATE, TAG AND PLANT SALE
Strong Porter House, 2382 South St., Coventry will host an estate, tag and plant sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Funds will be used to help the Coventry Historical Society repair winter storm damage to the historic Strong Porter House. Donations of saleable items or plants, excluding large stuffed furniture and appliances, are sought. Call Bob Visny (860) 742-8354, or Milton Natusch (860) 742- 7474. Vendors are welcome for $25 booth. Info: www.ctcoventryhistoricalsociety.org.

TAG SALE
9 a.m. to 3 p.m., 398 Stafford Road, Mansfield. Benefits the Compassionate Friends East of the River.

THRIFT SHOP AND KID’S BOUTIQUE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique is open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, 199 Valley St., Willimantic. New items every week, spring items have arrived. The shops will be closed Saturday, July 2 for the holiday weekend. Info: (860) 423-6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

PREPARED CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES
Windham Hospital offers an all-day “marathon” childbirth education class from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the hospital’s education center. Cost of class is $65 for families delivering their babies at Windham Hospital and $75 for families delivering elsewhere. Participants can also register for a baby basics class (fee: $10 if combined with prepared childbirth class). Info/register: (860) 456-6894.

VICTORIAN DAYS
The 13th annual Victorian Days in Willimantic, presented by the Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association, will take visitors on a trip back in time to experience the beautiful Victorian lifestyle once enjoyed in Willimantic, June 2 through June 5, starting at 11 a.m. Info: advance tickets, reservations for tea, or to receive a brochure with full details and the summer events calendar, call (860) 428-7573 or visit www.victorianwillimantic.org.

EASTERN CONNECTICUT’S MICRO ARTS FIESTA
Eastern Connecticut’s micro arts fiesta will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Garden on the Bridge, historic downtown Willimantic. Vendors, artists, shoppers and the curious and creative are welcome to participate in the micro arts fiesta on the Garden on the Bridge dur­ing Victorian Days in Willimantic. Info: (860) 933-8427 or visit www.WilliArtsFiesta.com.

PRESENTATION AND INTERPRETIVE HIKE
The Willington Conservation Commission is sponsoring a presenta­tion and interpretive hike by Barbara Austin on forest edibles and medic­inals from 10 a.m. to noon, in the Fenton Ruby Park, corner of Moose Meadow and Burma Roads, Willington. Rain date is Sunday afternoon, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Contact Chris (860) 429-8384 for more info.

FREE CONCERT OF COLONIAL MUSIC 1620 TO 1781
Free Concert of colonial music 1620 to 1781 Pilgrims’ Progress from Plimoth to Yorktown at 2 p.m. at the Lebanon Congregational Church on the historic Lebanon green, Lebanon. Free and open to the public. Sponsored by the Columbia and Lebanon historical societies. Info: (860) 642-6579.

ANNUAL PLANT SWAP
Mansfield Public Library will hold its annual plant swap at 3 p.m. in the Buchanan Auditorium. To participate, bring one plant or many, a perennial, annual or shrub or vegetable in a container you are willing to give away. Free and open to the public. Info (860) 423-2501 or visit www.mansfieldpubliclibraryct.org

SPRING CHICKEN BBQ
Franklin Congregational Church, 31 Meetinghouse Hill Road, is hosting a spring chicken BBQ with seatings at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Adults $10, seniors $9, children 12 and under $5, pre-school free. Tickets available at the door.

QUIET CORNER CONTRA DANCE
Dance is at the Storrs Congregational Church Hall, 2 North Eagleville Road, Storrs (Church Drive a short way down from the inter­section of Route 195, on the UConn campus). Free lessons at 7:30 p.m., with dance beginning at 8 p.m. (all dances are taught). $10 non-member adults, members $8. High school and college students $5, Children under 12, $3. Info. Marc (860) 933-5144 mascrivener@gmail.com, or Dave (484) 844-5203 dcannell@freeshell.org

‘THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST’
The Windham Theatre Guild ends its 2010-11 season with one of the funniest and most performed plays ever written in the English language, “The Importance of Being Earnest,” opening at the Burton Leavitt Theatre, 779 Main St., Willimantic at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 adults, $12 students and seniors (60 plus), $10 for college students and $8 for children under 12. Reservations by calling (860) 423-2245 or by visiting www.windhamtheatreguild.org. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Sunday June 5

TAG SALE
A tag sale will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., 398 Stafford Road, Mansfield. Benefits the Compassionate Friends East of the River.

VICTORIAN DAYS
The 13th annual Victorian Days in Willimantic, presented by the Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association, will take visitors on a trip back in time to experience the beautiful Victorian lifestyle once enjoyed in Willimantic through June 5 starting at 11 a.m. Info/advance tickets, reservations for tea, or to receive a brochure with full details and the summer events calendar, call (860) 428-7573 or visit www.victorianwillimantic.org

CANTERBURY VFW BREAKFAST
Canterbury VFW, Route 169, North Canterbury Road, Canterbury will be hosting a Sunday Breakfast from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. $5.50, 5 years and under free.

SCOTLAND HUNTINGTON HOMESTEAD OPEN HOUSE
Tour Guides lead visitors through the birthplace of Samuel Huntington, signer of the Declaration of Independence from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Gov. Samuel Huntington Trust opens the Homestead on the first and third Saturdays of each month through October. It is located on Route 14 just west of the Scotland town center. Free admission, dona­tions welcome. Info: (860) 423-1547.

PRAISE FESTIVAL
The Council for Christian Arts in partnership with the First Baptist Church of Willimantic will host the 10th annual Praise Festival at Jillson Square beginning at 1 p.m. Free event. More details are available online at www.ccawindhamcounty.org or by calling Sara Sabo (860) 456-0239 or Doreen Bolduc (860) 455-9616.

HISTORIC TOUR
Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary route. Join Columbia Historical Society members for a 1- to 2-mile historic tour, “Revolutionary Columbia” from 1 to 4 p. m. See where Rochambeau, Washington and Lafayette trav­eled through Lebanon Crank en route from Newport to Yorktown: The tour stops include: The Landmark Inn (c1750), Eleazar Wheelock House (c1735) exterior only, Moor’s Charity School (c1755), Clark House (c1742), and the Old Yard Cemetery. Landmark Natural Foods Store and Cafe (326 Route 87) is the tour headquarters for hourly guided tours. Brochures for self-guided tours will also be available. Sponsored by the Columbia Historical Society: columbia-history.org Easy, mostly level terrain. No dogs please. Heavy rains cancel. Parking is available at the town administrative offices, Beckish Senior Center, Landmark Inn or Horace Porter School. A virtual tour will be available online in late summer.

ALBERT E. MOSS FOREST SANCTUARY CELEBRATION
Ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a guided walk led by local natu­ralists Sue and Tom Harrington to celebrate the permanent preservation and recent trail improvements to the Albert E. Moss Forest, Wildflower, and Wildlife Sanctuary. The event is free and open to the public and is appro­priate for families with children age 5 and older. Meet at the Mansfield Community Center at 2 p.m. For more information about the Albert E. Moss Forest, Wildflower, and Wildlife Sanctuary and all of Mansfield parks and preserves, visit www.mansfieldct.gov. To download trail guides of Mansfield’s parks and preserves log on to www.mansfieldct.org/trail­guides.

‘THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST’
The Windham Theatre Guild ends its 2010-11 season with one of the funniest and most performed plays ever written in the English language, “The Importance of Being Earnest,” opening at the Burton Leavitt Theatre, 779 Main St., Willimantic at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 adults, $12 students and seniors (60 plus), $10 for college students and $8 for children under 12. Reservations by calling (860) 423-2245 or by visiting www.windhamthe­atreguild.org. Tickets will also be available at the door.

MUSIC IN THE PARK
Alex Caisse Park, Willimantic, 2 p.m. Black Burn, Rusty Macha. Free concert. Info: Windham Rec. (860) 465-3046.

RENAISSANCE REVIVAL CONCERT
“The Battle Join’d! Music of Warfare and of the Hunt.” Madrigals and chansons sung by the Renaissance Revival, directed by Michael McCarthy. St. Mark’s Episcopal Chapel, 42 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Freewill donations suggested. Contact: (860) 429-8388 or web site RenRevival.org.

MEDITATION
Meditation in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese poet and scholar. Free. Sundays, Knight House, Eastern Connecticut State University. 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Info: (860) 423-3859.

5TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
The Coventry Early Childhood Center is holding its annual golf tourna­ment at the Blackledge Country Club, Hebron, on June 12. Players and sponsors needed. All proceeds will benefit the center. Info: (860) 742-5859 or www.scrambleforourschool.com

Posted 6-3-2011

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Ribbon-cutting for Willington’s new athletic complex is June 4

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating Phase II of Willington, CT's River Road Athletic Complex project will be held Saturday, June 4, 2011. Photo source: Town of Willington

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating Phase II of the River Road Athletic Complex project will be held Saturday, June 4.

Speeches, games and events will be held from noon to 5 p.m. (The rain date is Sunday, June 5, same hours.)

The ceremony, dedication and speeches by local dignitaries will start promptly at noon, so plan to arrive a little early to park your vehicle and find a good spot (bring your own lawn chair).

If you liked to play in the 3 vs 3 Basketball Tournaments, there’s a $5 per player fee. The tournaments divisions are middle school, high school and over-18. Please contact Greg Suchy at gsuchy47@charter.net to register.

Other events will include scheduled WAM Soccer and Little League Baseball games.

There will be DJ music throughout the event. You can join a pick-up game of volleyball or join in an inaugural lap around the walking path. There’s also a great playscape for the little ones.

Food and beverages will be available for sale.

It’s going to be a great day – wear your Willington T-shirt and show your town pride!

Posted June 1, 2011

Have a news item or event you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. To keep up-to-date on local news, like us (HTNP) on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Annual Plant Sale, 5K run and more this weekend

Ed. note: Memorial Day events and parades are listed in a separate article.

Saturday May 28

SPRING PLANT SALE
A spring plant sale by the women’s guild and bell choir of the Columbia Congregational Church will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Route 87, Columbia. Info: (860) 228-3757.

BAKE AND TAG SALE – ASHFORD
Kidderbrook Montessori School will hold its 21st annual bake and tag sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This will be the last tag sale in the school’s Ashford location on 22 Kidderbrook Road before it is relocated to Ellington. Info: (860) 429 0061.

GOODWIN STATE FOREST HIKE
The Goodwin State Forest will host a hike that will feature a variety of trails and wildlife. The guided interpretive hike will follow sections of the Natchaug Trail and the Airline Trail and take in views of Pine Acres Pond. Participants should bring binoculars, insect repellant, and water. The walk will take place at 9 a.m. leaving from the conservation and education center, located at 23 Potter Road off Route 6 in Hampton. For more information or to register to join the hike, call the center at (860) 455-9534.

DRAWING WORKSHOP WITH REBECCA MONTGOMERY
Northeastern Connecticut Art Guild is sponsoring a drawing work­shop from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Creamery Brook Retirement Village, 36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn. Pre-registration is required. Information is at grancy5252@gmail.com

REPUBLICANS TO HOLD CHICKEN BARBECUE
Lebanon Republican Town Committee will host a chicken barbecue after the Lebanon Memorial Day parade behind the public library. Cost is $9 for a half chicken and $6 for a quarter chicken. Tickets available from Lebanon Republican Town Committee members.

Sunday May 29

ROUND THE LAKE 5K
The Marlborough Lions Club is holding its 27th annual Round The Lake 5K starting at 10:30 a.m. Start and finish at Blish Memorial Park. Entry fee, $15 pre-registration, $20 race day until 10 a.m., $50 maxi­mum per family. Info: (860) 295-9150 or (860) 295-8374.

Posted 5-27-2011

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Memorial Day 2011 weekend events and closings

The following are locally scheduled Memorial Day weekend parades, ceremonies and remembrances:

Sunday, May 29

Coventry will conduct a brief memorial service beginning at 2 p.m. at St. Mary’s Cemetery on Main Street and will continue to the New Cemetery on Lake Street, North Cemetery on Grant Hill Road, Center Cemetery, Silver Street Cemetery and Wrights Mill Road Cemetery.

Monday, May 30

Columbia‘s annual ceremony begins at 10 a.m. on the town green near the intersection of routes 66 and 87. The Memorial Day Parade, with numerous town organizations, including Little League, the high school band, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, kicks off at 10 a.m. Marchers will convene at George H. Robertson Intermediate School at 227 Cross St. From there, participants will head to the Veteran’s Green on Lake Street for a brief service, and then down Lake Street to Main Street, ending at Bradbury Lane.

Mansfield‘s Memorial Day Parade on Monday begins at 9 a.m. at the intersection of Route 195 and Bassetts Bridge Road. It then proceeds down Route 195 toward Cemetery Road to the new Mansfield Center Cemetery. Music will be provided by bands from E. O. Smith High School and Mansfield Middle School.

In the event of inclement weather, an abbreviated ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. in the Mansfield Middle School gymnasium. Tune in to WILI radio by 7:30 a.m. for any weather-related cancellation information.

Windham‘s annual Memorial Day pilgrimage begins at 7 a.m. Monday from the VFW building located at 1415 Main St. in Willimantic, with everyone invited. The stops will be at the New Willimantic Cemetery, Old Willimantic Cemetery, South Windham memorial, Windham Center Cemetery, Windham Center memorials, North Windham Cemetery, St. Joseph Cemetery, Russian Orthodox Cemetery and Windham Veteran’s Greenway.

Following the pilgrimage, the group will return to the VFW on Main Street for coffee and doughnuts at approximately 9 a.m.

At 10 a.m., the Memorial Day Parade will form at Jillson Square and then march to Memorial Park where there will be an observance at Memorial Park on Main Street with a speaking program featuring Willimantic Police Lt. Raymond Evans. Following that program, the parade will resume and march to the American Legion headquarters on Bricktop Road.

Hebron‘s Memorial Day parade lines up at 10:30 a.m. at RHAM High School and steps off at 10:45 a.m. down Wall Street to Main Street, where it will conclude.

The Willington Memorial Day parade will be held on Monday, May 30, at 8:30 a.m. beginning at the town green, proceeding down route 74 to Willington Hill Cemetery where a short service will be held.

Memorial Day closings

The following will be closed Monday in observance of Memorial Day unless otherwise noted:

• Government offices: Federal, state and local offices closed.
• Schools: Closed.
• Postal service: Closed.
• Banks: Most closed.
• Business offices: Most closed.
• Food, retail stores: Most open.
• Stock exchange: Closed.
• Department of Motor Vehicles: Closed Saturday and Monday.
• Bus service: Will not run.

Posted May 27, 2011

Have a news item or event you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. To keep up-to-date on local news, like us (HTNP) on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Come out and celebrate Willington Day 2011 on May 28

Drawings courtesy of the Town of Willington.

Get ready for a day of fun with family, friends and neighbors on Saturday, May 28 – Willington Day!

Events run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will be held at the Center School field and the Willington Hill Fire Department.

And they are all free.

The day concludes with a fishing derby from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Thompson’s Pond.

For details about events, call 429-1597 before offices close on Friday, May 27 (before noon).

The Willington Day schedule includes:

11 a.m.   Horseshoe registration

11:30 a.m. Horseshoes (sponsor: Bill Navratil)

11:30 a.m. Frog Jumping Contest (sponsor: Fish & Game Club)

Noon Chalk Drawing (sponsor: WYFSS)

1 p.m. Pizza Eating Contest (sponsor: Willington Pizza)

1:30 p.m. Cheer Stunt Clinic & Demo w/Sondra Reid

2 p.m. Hula Hoop Contest (sponsor: Willington Pizza)

2:30 p.m.  Karate Demo (sponsor: Hidden Dragon Karate)

4-5:30 p.m.  Fishing Derby at Thompson’s Pond

Throughout the day, there will also be a number of ongoing events such as: Music, Spin Art, Sand Art, Bounce House, Face Painting, Dunking Booth, Horse and Pony Rides, Go-Kart Display, Fortune Teller, Football Throw and other games, Silent Auction, food booths, vendor and information booths.

Posted May 27, 2011

Have a news item or event you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions. To keep up-to-date on local news, like us (HTNP) on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Plant sales, spring clean up, bottle drive & more this weekend

Saturday May 21

LIBRARY BOOK, BAKE AND PHOTOGRAPHY SALE
The Fletcher Memorial Library, 257 Main St., Hampton, will hold a book, bake and photography sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: library@hamptonct.org.

PLANT SALE
Chaplin Elementary School, 240 Palmer Road, Chaplin, will host a plant sale in the school gymnasium from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sponsored by the Chaplin PTO.

ANNUAL USED BOOK SALE
St. Philip the Apostle Church, Route 44, Ashford, will hold its annual used book sale from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free admission.

GARDEN CLUB OF WINDHAM PLANT SALE
The annual plant sale fundraiser for the Garden Club of Windham will be held at the Windham High School cafeteria, 355 High St., Willimantic, from 9 a.m. to noon. Part of the sale proceeds will be con­tributed to Windham Middle School in support of special enrichment programs and activities.

ANNUAL SPRING PLANT SALE
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 220 Valley St., Willimantic, is holding its annual spring plant sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: (860) 423-8455 or e-mail office@stpaulswillimantic.org.

THRIFT SHOP AND KID’S BOUTIQUE
The Thrift Shop and Kid’s Boutique is open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon at the First Congregational Church on 199 Valley St,, Willimantic. New items every week. Spring items have arrived. The shops will be closed Saturday, May 28, and Saturday, July 2, for the holiday weekends. Info: (860) 423-6827 or visit www.churchw.org.

E.O. SMITH SAFE GRAD BOTTLE DRIVE
E.O. Smith High School will hold a Safe Grad bottle drive in the school parking lot from 9 a.m. to noon. All proceeds to go to a safe and fun graduation night for the school’s graduating seniors in June. Bring rinsed cans and bottles and volunteers will do the rest. Sponsored by the parents of Ashford, Mansfield and Willington. Info. Sandy (860) 429-2246

ANDOVER MONUMENT PARK SPRING CLEANUP
Andover residents will assemble at the Veterans Monument Park located on the corner of Routes 6 and 316 in Andover to do some spring cleaning. Volunteers will meet from 9 a.m. until noon to weed, rake, leaf blow and, perhaps, do some mulching. Rain date is May 28. Info: (860) 742-3033.

GOODWIN FAMILY FUN FAIR
Goodwin Elementary School, 321 Hunting Lodge Road, Storrs, will conduct its Family Fun Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free admission, though 20 percent of proceeds of other events will be donated to the Hurlock Family Fund in honor of Julie Hurlock, a member of the school staff. Silent auction, cake walk, games, prizes, basket raffles, food, a visit from Life Star, a Rock Cats mascot and more are expected. Info: (860) 429-6316.

Sunday, May 22

BIGG PLAY BREAKFAST
Bigg Play will be hosting a break­fast at the Elks Home, Pleasant St., Willimantic from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. $7/person, $6 seniors.

BUFFET BREAKFAST
Knights of Columbus Council 14, 41 Club Rd., Windham will host a Buffet Breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Adults over 12, $6.50, seniors, $6, ages 6-12, $5.50 and children under 5 free.

ANNUAL SPRING TEA
The Prudence Crandall Museum, Rtes. 14 & 169, Canterbury hosts its annual Spring Tea from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. $12/person; Pre-registration required. Tickets/info: (860) 546-7800 or crandall.museum@ct.gov.

FAMILY COMEDY & MAGIC SHOW FEATURING MATT ROBERTS
Church of the Holy Family, 185 Church St., Hebron will be hosting a Family Comedy & Magic Show at 2 p.m. Tickets $7 per person with a $30 per family max. Contact (860) 228-0096 or www.holyfamilyhebron.org.

“OUR LOVE IS HERE TO STAY”
Columbia Congregational Church, 323 Rte. 87, Columbia will host a concert of George Gershwin and Cole Porter music, Celebrating the life of Barbara S. Stannard at 2 p.m. Info. (860) 228-9306.

SPRING DANCE SHOWCASE
EASTCONN’s Capitol Theater Arts Academy (CTAA) will pres­ent its annual Spring Dance Showcase, featuring young danc­ers from 13 area towns, at 2 p.m., at EASTCONN’s Capitol Theater, 896 Main St., Willimantic. General admission $10, and $8 for students and seniors. For tickets and informa­tion, contact the Capitol Theater’s Jessica Folta (860) 465-5636.

COLUMBIA LIONS WINE TASTING
The Columbia Lions will host a Wine Tasting from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Log Cabin Restaurant & Lounge 383 Trumbull Highway, Lebanon. To Benefit Lions Low Vision Center of Eastern Connecticut. Tickets $20/ person. Info/tickets Lion Jim Blair (860) 228- 0489 or Lion Dan Osmond (860) 228-0032.

TEA AND TALK
The Windham Textile and History Museum will be hosting “Tea and Talk at 4 p.m. The lec­ture, given by historian Bev York, will focus on local and state inven­tions and innovations. Learn about the amazing Fourdrinier machine. Suggested donation of $10 to sup­port the Museum. Reservations (860) 456-2178.

Posted 5-20-2011

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Native American Exhibits, Fundraising, Car Cruise and more this weekend

Saturday, May 14

ANNUAL SPRING FAIR – STORRS
Storrs Congregational Church, 2 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, will hold its annual spring fair from 9 a m. to noon.

GIANT TAG SALE
Chaplin Elementary School is sponsoring a tag sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Spaces still available: 10×10 outdoor space $10; indoor space $15. Add $5 for table. We are also accepting donations on Thursday & Friday May 12 and 13 between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact (860) 455-9593 for more info.

CAR WASH/ PLANT SALE
First Baptist Church of Mansfield, 945 Storrs Rd., Storrs from 9 a. m. to Noon. Proceeds will go to summer camperships for Camp Wightman.

USED BOOK SALE – ASHFORD
St. Philip the Apostle Church, Route 44, Ashford, will host a used book sale through May 22 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

MAY FRIENDSHIP DAY
May Friendship Day, sponsored by the Greater Willimantic Unit of Church Women United, will take place at the Hampton Congregational Church, 265 Main St. (Route 97), Hampton. Gathering at 9: 30 a. m. fol­lowed by the program at 10 a. m. called “Living Our Friendship, Passing on the Key.” A Valiant Woman Award recipient will be honored and the Key Women will be recognized. Bring a salad to share for the potluck lunch. Contacts: Karen at (860) 455-0647 or Carole at (860) 228-9099.

YOUTH ART EXHIBIT AND HAITI FUNDRAISER
Storrs Community Church, 90 Tolland Turnpike, Route 195, Coventry, is celebrating the arts from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Local artists and artisans will be exhibiting and selling their art. The “Youth Arts” event will feature students exhibiting from Coventry, Tolland, Willington and Mansfield and CSA, a community-based program supporting the arts sponsored by The School of Fine Arts at the University of Connecticut. Proceeds from pizza, bake sale and silent auction will be sent to Haiti. For more information, contact Susan Collin at susanmitchellcollin@gmail.com.

SATURDAY BEREAVEMENT GROUP
Hospice of Eastern Connecticut will hold its Saturday bereavement group. The group is held from 11a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 34 Ledgebrook Drive, Mansfield. Group is appropriate for those who are grieving a year or more. Group is open to the community. Info: (860) 456- 7288, ext. 293.

NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS EXHIBIT
The Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House opens for the season with an exhibit of Native American artifacts. Items on display include beaded bags and fancy baskets made by Penobscot, Passamaquoddy and Iroquois people, primarily made for the Victorian tourist trade. The artifacts are from the collection of Charles and Barbara Adams, antiques dealers from South Yarmouth, Mass. The museum, owned by the town of Lebanon, is locat­ed at 780 Trumbull Highway (Route 87), Lebanon. Hours are Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 4 p. m. Admission is free. Info: (860) 642- 7987.

PROGRAM ON ALGONQUIN CULTURE
David and Lynn Mathieson portray an immigrant Scot and an Algonquin medicine woman couple during the fur trade era at the Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House, 780 Trumbull Highway (Route 87), Lebanon, from noon to 4 p.m. American Indian clothing and regalia, authentically reproduced by the Mathiesons, will be on display. They will also sell their handmade Indian crafts, including drums and jewelry. Free admission. Info: (860) 642- 7987.

‘ FREEDOM’S JOURNEY’ POETRY READING
The Prudence Crandall Museum, Routes 14 and 169, Canterbury, will host a ” Freedom’s Journey” poetry reading at 1 p.m. Cost is $6 adults, $5 seniors and youth ages 5 and under free.

SCOTLAND RABIES CLINIC
Scotland Firehouse, 47 Brook Road, Scotland, will hold a rabies clinic from 2 to 4 p. m. Cost is $12 per pet, cash only. Mobile grooming also on site for nail trimming and ear cleaning from 1 to 4 p. m. $ 7each or $ 10/both.

RHYTHMIC UNIVERSE – WILLIMANTIC
Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Willimantic, from 3 to 5 p.m. Workshop by author of “River of Life: How to Live in the Flow” and other books, Spiritualist teacher, lecturer, medium, spiritual adviser, the Rev. Marilyn Awtry. Cost is $30/person, $20 for CT State Spiritualist Association/CSSA members at the door.

ROAST PORK DINNER
The First Congregational Church of Coventry will host a roast pork dinner from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, 1171 Main St., Coventry. Cost is $8 adults, $7 seniors, $4 children ages 6-12 and chil­dren under six free.

HAM AND BEAN SUPPER
Echo Grange No. 180 will hold a ham and bean supper at the Grange Hall, 483 Storrs Road (Route 195) in Mansfield Center from 5 to 7 p.m. Proceeds from the supper will be used to further community service projects. Tickets will be sold at the door. Cost is adults $8, seniors $7, children aged 4-12 $5 and children under 4 are free. Takeouts are avail­able.

BENEFIT FUNDRAISER – E. O. SMITH FOUNDATION
E. O. Smith High School Foundation is hosting a benefit fundraiser at The Sports Bar, 157 Boston Post Road, North Windham at 6 p.m. Live entertainment with live and silent auctions. Admission includes full dinner from the grill and late night pizza. Tickets are $25. Info: Call Matt Raynor at (860) 428- 5444.

‘ DINNER, MAGIC & BEYOND’
Church of the Holy Family, 185 Church St., Hebron will host a “Dinner, Magic & Beyond” show featuring illusionist David Garrity. Dinner 6:30 p.m. and show at 7:30 p. m. Tickets $ 25/person. Info: (860) 228-0096 or www.holyfamilyhebron.com.

ONE SIGHT FUNDRAISER LATIN SOCIAL DANCE PARTY
Grasshopper Arts Dance Studio, 25 Meadow St., Willimantic will hold a fundraiser Latin social dance party from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Admission $15.

SUMMER HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS
The University of Connecticut, Storrs, is offering summer horseback riding lessons. Open to children age 11 or older and adults. Three-week ses­sions available. Cost is $210 to $315 per session. Visit www.animalscience.uconn.edu for details.

Sunday, May 15

SUNDAY E.O. SMITH SAFE GRAD BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER
A fundraiser breakfast for a sub­stance-free graduation party for E.O. Smith graduates this year is slated at the Willington Pizza House, Route. 32, Willington from 8 to 10 a.m. Cost is $7/person.

SPRING BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Saxton B. Little Free Library will hold a used book sale to raise funds for the library from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is open and free to all. The book sale will be held at the Chapel on the Green, Route 87, Columbia (right next to the library). Info: (860) 228-0350.

SECOND ANNUAL CAR CRUISE
The Ashford Senior Center, 25 Tremko Lane, Ashford, will host its annual car cruise from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rain date May 22.

NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS EXHIBIT
The Jonathan Trumbull Jr. House opens for the season with an exhibit of Native American artifacts. Items on display include groupings of  beaded bags and fancy baskets made by Penobscot, Passamaquoddy and Iroquois people, primar­ily made for the Victorian tourist trade. The artifacts are from the collection of Charles and Barbara Adams, antiques dealers from South Yarmouth, Mass. The museum, owned by the Town of Lebanon, is located at 780 Trumbull Highway (Route 87), Lebanon. Hours are Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Info: (860) 642-7987.

TREES THAT INSPIRED FAMOUS WRITERS
Richard Horan will discuss natu­ral history, an homage to trees, liter­ary gossip, adventure and a dose of travel writing in his new book “Seeds: One Man’s Serendipitous Journey to Find the Trees That Inspired Famous American Writers from Faulkner to Kerouac, Welty to Wharton.” UConn Co-op, Storrs Campus at 1 p.m. Free but call to ensure a seat at (860) 486-5027.

AMELIA EARHART, ONE WOMAN SHOW
Actress Karen Tracy will portray Amelia Earhart in this one-woman from 2 to 4 p.m., in the hangar at Windham Airport, 39 Airport Road, North Windham. Admission: $10/person, $25/family of four. Fundraiser to benefit Victorian Days in Willimantic. Call (860) 456-1666 for reservations.

POETRY READING AND ART EXHIBIT
The Town of Chaplin will spon­sor a poetry reading and art exhibit at the Chaplin Public Library, locat­ed on Chaplin Street, from 4 to 6 p.m. To read or to exhibit, e-mail ljwrench@snet.net or call (860) 455-9787.

Posted 5-12-2011

Have a news item or event you’d like posted on this news site? Simply send your information to editor@htnp.com and include your town in the subject line of your email. Please also include a phone number where you can be reached if there are questions.

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